Over the course of the next few days, we’re going to explore that sad time after the holidays when decorations and gifts must find a place to be stored or disposed. Putting away a menorah or Christmas tree or New Year’s party hat is never as much fun as bringing it out of storage or buying it. And, for a number of us, it’s cold and cloudy outside and the temptation to procrastinate the whole affair is pretty strong. Our couches and blankets call to us to sit for a while longer and relax while digesting all of those holiday meals.

I want to ease into this discussion a bit–it is only Jan. 2, after all–and provide you with some links that you can peruse from the comfort of your couch. No need to be called to action just yet. Consider this “research.”

Need to return or exchange an item because of damage or ill fitting size? Start by doing a Google search of the brand name and the phrase “how to return and exchange an item.” In some cases, you’ll need a gift receipt and tags, so be sure to know what you need before taking on the crowds in the stores.

Wondering what to do with leftovers from all of your holiday meals? Wonder no more! Rubbermaid has helpful advice: Leftover Safety

Need to replenish your home bar after all of your festive parties? Get help making your shopping list from Boston Cocktails: Stocking the Bar

Tomorrow, Matt will dispense his wisdom on how to properly store all of your holiday ornaments. In the meantime, sit back, breathe, and be glad that you have until Halloween before the madness starts again.

3 Comments for “Post-holiday cleanup, part 1”

I just heard (via Boston Mamas) about a site called Swaptree where you can swap books, DVDs, and CDs with people for free (only paying for postage). You enter what you have and what you want, and they find matches for you. I have shelves full of books that seem too good to get rid of, but that I probably won’t read again, so I’m excited to try this.